Japan PM slams \\\'despicable\\\' Islamist execution threat

TOKYO, Jan 28 (AFP):- An angry Japanese prime minister on Wednesday slammed as "utterly despicable" an Islamist militant threat to kill both a Japanese hostage and a Jordanian pilot unless Amman releases a jihadi bomber.

The clock was ticking towards the 24-hour deadline Islamic State group militants set in their latest chilling video, which warned they will execute freelance journalist Kenji Goto and airman Maaz al-Kassasbeh if they do not get their way.

"This was an utterly despicable act, and I am appalled," Japanese premier Shinzo Abe told reporters. "I have instructed all ministers to work together for the early release of Mr Kenji Goto."

"The government, in this extremely serious situation, has been asking for the Jordanian government's cooperation towards the early release of Mr Goto, and this policy remains unchanged," he earlier told ministers.